By Isaac Salima:
Mulhako wa Alhomwe has launched an initiative of reinstating some of its structures and plants that were destroyed by Tropical Cyclone Freddy last year.
Cyclone Freddy which hit some districts in the Southern Region, damaged some of the cultural grouping’s heritage buildings, food and medicinal plants at its headquarters of Chonde in Mulanje District.
The grouping has sourced about K45 million from partners in the Netherlands to be used in rebuilding the damaged infrastructure as well as replace some of the plants.
Speaking on Friday during the launch of the initiative, Principal Secretary for National Unity in the Ministry of Local Government, Unity and Culture Elizabeth Gomani Chindevu hailed the cultural group for sourcing funds for the cause.
“The fact that they mobilised resources for rebuilding is good news and something that other cultural establishments can emulate. The impact of Cyclone Freddy on cultural groupings was huge because we lost people and infrastructure. So, as government we have welcomed this initiative,” Chindevu said.
Mulhako wa Alhomwe Project Coordinator John Lundu Phiri said they were pleased that the place will now regain its stature.
“The second phase will among other, things involve construction of traditional huts which we call Namurukunuwa. So, we will construct three Namurukunuwas and other heritage structures.
“These structures are not only our tangible heritage but also a representation of our artistic part. The project is not about Lhomwes but people across the country because it is about safeguarding and preserving our culture,” Phiri said.
Mulhako wa Alhomwe was established in 2007 by former president Bingu wa Mutharika and holds an annual cultural event at the headquarters.
